Perez: 'If I'm not supported, I'm not going to help others'

Sergio Perez has indicated his willingness to choose for himself this season. In an interview with FOX Mexico the Red Bull Racing driver discusses the dynamics within the team and what role he expects to play.

That Perez is the second driver at Red Bull should be obvious. The Mexican has shown often enough that he really knows what he is doing behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car, but he cannot compete against Max Verstappen. In 2021, Perez was therefore well aware of his role in the team and played a crucial role in the title battle between Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. Verstappen's words during the season finale - 'Checo is a legend' - only emphasised that.

Towards the end of 2022, however, that relationship seemed to have soured somewhat. Despite clear team orders, Verstappen refused to cede his position to Perez at the Brazilian Grand Prix, even though Verstappen was already sure of his title and Perez could use every point.

'In the end, it's always about teamwork'

Ahead of the new season, Perez was asked how selfish he could be this year. While Perez does not want to say outright that he will run his own course, that insinuation is hidden in his answer.

"It depends. In the end, it's always about teamwork. But of course it's true that if I don't feel I'm getting the support I need, then I'm not going to help others either. But I don't expect that to happen."